In a bold move that signals the deepening connection between real estate and the digital economy, RAK Properties has unveiled a new payment option for international property buyers: cryptocurrency.
The Ras Al Khaimah-based developer, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), announced a strategic collaboration with fintech firm Hubpay to facilitate secure and fully regulated crypto transactions for property purchases. Through this partnership, investors can now use Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Tether (USDT), and other major digital assets to buy properties in RAK Properties’ flagship Mina Al Arab waterfront development.
A New Era for Real Estate Payments
Instead of managing digital assets directly, RAK Properties will rely on Hubpay’s infrastructure to instantly convert all crypto payments into UAE dirhams (AED). The funds are then transferred seamlessly into the company’s corporate accounts. This eliminates the volatility and custody risks often associated with crypto, while keeping the process compliant with UAE financial regulations.
Hubpay, licensed by Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and working with VARA registered partners, brings institutional-grade safeguards to the process. The goal is to ensure that even high-value real estate transactions made through crypto meet rigorous financial and compliance standards.
Appealing to the Crypto Generation
The initiative is part of RAK Properties’ broader strategy to attract a younger generation of global investors who are comfortable operating in the digital economy. With crypto adoption accelerating worldwide, especially among millennial and Gen Z investors, offering digital asset payments is a strategic move to tap into this emerging market.
“This isn’t just about keeping up with trends,” said Rahul Jogani, Chief Financial Officer of RAK Properties. “It’s about leading them. By supporting crypto payments, we’re opening the door to a new demographic of investment-savvy clients who want speed, flexibility, and transparency. It reflects our long-term commitment to innovation and global accessibility.”
Expansion of Mina Al Arab and Global Reach
RAK Properties’ decision to integrate crypto comes as construction surges ahead at Mina Al Arab, one of the most ambitious waterfront communities in Ras Al Khaimah. Over 800 residential units are expected to be delivered before the end of the year, with strong interest from both local and overseas buyers.
With the new payment system in place, the developer hopes to widen its appeal to international clients who hold wealth in digital assets and are seeking property investment opportunities in tax-friendly, high-growth markets like the UAE.
Hubpay CEO Kevin Kilty described the partnership as a significant milestone. “We are proud to provide the infrastructure that enables real estate leaders like RAK Properties to engage with the digital finance revolution in a secure and compliant way. This partnership proves that crypto can be used for serious, high-value transactions when the right safeguards are in place.”
Backed by Ras Al Khaimah’s Vision 2030
The collaboration supports Ras Al Khaimah’s Vision 2030 blueprint, which outlines ambitious goals for economic diversification, international investment, and innovation across sectors including real estate, tourism, and finance. By allowing digital asset payments for property, RAK Properties is helping to position the emirate as a progressive hub for foreign capital and next-generation finance.
The announcement also aligns with broader trends in the UAE, which continues to welcome blockchain and crypto ventures through regulatory clarity and pro-innovation policies. The country has already introduced initiatives for using crypto in government services and continues to attract major global crypto players seeking alternatives to the EU’s restrictive MiCA regulations.
UAE: A Rising Crypto Destination
This development comes at a time when the UAE is strengthening its position as a safe haven for blockchain projects and stablecoin issuers. Regulatory certainty and supportive financial policies are driving high-profile partnerships, acquisitions, and pilot programs across the Emirates.
With real estate now added to the list of crypto-integrated sectors, investors holding digital wealth are seeing new opportunities open up across the region.